Reactions to movie theater shooting

2012-07-20T12:08:16Z2016-09-14T14:35:13Z

The following are statements released by the presidential candidates and others in response to the fatal shootings in Aurora, CO.

President Barack Obama

Michelle and I are shocked and saddened by the horrific and tragic shooting in Colorado. Federal and local law enforcement are still responding, and my administration will do everything that we can to support the people of Aurora in this extraordinarily difficult time.

We are committed to bringing whoever was responsible to justice, ensuring the safety of our people, and caring for those who have been wounded. As we do when confronted by moments of darkness and challenge, we must now come together as one American family.

All of us must have the people of Aurora in our thoughts and prayers as they confront the loss of family, friends, and neighbors, and we must stand together with them in the challenging hours and days to come.

Statement from the family of James Holmes

Our hearts go out to those who were involved in this tragedy and to the families and friends of those involved.

Mitt Romney

Ann and I are deeply saddened by the news of the senseless violence that took the lives of 15 people in Colorado and injured dozens more. We are praying for the families and loved ones of the victims during this time of deep shock and immense grief.

We expect that the person responsible for this terrible crime will be quickly brought to justice.

Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano

I am deeply saddened by the terrible shooting in Aurora, Colorado. Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies continue to respond to this horrific event, and I have directed the Department of Homeland Security to provide any support necessary in the ongoing investigation.

We are committed to bringing those responsible to justice. Our hearts and prayers go out to anyone impacted by this tragedy, especially the family and friends of those killed or injured.

City of Aurora

We certainly appreciate the nation's thoughts and prayers as our police department continues to investigate the terrible theater shooting tragedy that occurred today. Our condolences go out to the victims and their family members."

Warner Bros

Warner Bros. is deeply saddened to learn about this shocking incident. We extend our sincere sympathies to the families and loved ones of the victims at this tragic time.

University of Colorado

We are deeply saddened by this horrific tragedy in Aurora. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and their families.

Dan Gross, Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence

As someone who has suffered the lasting impact of gun violence, and president of Brady, I can tell you that we don't want sympathy. We want action. Just this past April 16, the anniversary of the worst mass shooting in American history, 32 victims of gun violence joined us to demand Congress take action to stop arming dangerous people.

The Department of Defense

The Department of Defense is deeply saddened by the news of the tragic incident at the Aurora Mall Movie Theater in Aurora, Colo. Our thoughts and prayers are with the victims and the families of those impacted by this event.

One sailor was injured and one, known to have been at the theatre that evening, is currently unaccounted for. Two airmen were injured in the incident. The Navy and the Air Force are working with the families of these service members to ensure they have the care and attention they need.

We can also confirm that the alleged gunman in this incident, James Holmes, is not a past or current member of any branch or component of the U.S. Armed Forces.